I finish my sermon series this Sunday by focusing on how the Holy Spirit can give direction to our lives. We often are in situations where we face major decisions and are trying to figure out what to do. Here is where it is helpful to lean on the Holy Spirit's guidance. As you read through the book of Acts you do find how the Spirit is directing the lives of those early disciples.

In Acts 15, for instance, we read about the council convened in Jerusalem regarding admitting Gentiles into the faith. Jewish believers in Christ felt that circumcision was necessary for Gentiles to enter into the Christian faith. After some deliberation here is the response:

"We have therefore sent Judas and Silas, who themselves will tell you the same things by word of mouth. For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to impose on you no further burden than these essentials..." Acts 15:28

The decision reached was that the Jewish ritual was not necessary, but we notice that the Holy Spirit was involved in this decision. It might be helpful to pray for the Spirit's influence as we do face major decisions in our own lives. We know that we will have a compass that we have that will keep us aligned properly and living in God's direction.

I would invite you to reflect on how often you do rely on the Holy Spirit in your own life as you prepare for worship this Sunday.